The 3rd Year Visit was a meaningful opportunity for our online EdD in KIN students to step back onto campus, reconnect with one another, and refocus for the final stages of their doctoral journey. Over the course of three days, students were able to move beyond the screen and experience in person community, support, and momentum that will continually shape their progress through the program. As someone helping with the visit, it was inspiring to see how quickly the days became more than a schedule of sessions to a shared experience of encouragement and renewed energy.
From the start, the visit created space for students to check in, share progress, and talk honestly about where they were in the EdD in KIN program, especially with their dissertation. Those conversations alone were heartwarming and reminded them that while dissertation work could feel isolating, they are part of a larger scholarly community that is invested in their success.
One memorable session was hosted by Megan Walters about Career and Professional Services. She talked about how those resources can be used not only during the final year, but also well beyond graduation made me realize how invested the staff & faculty are in the success of every student regardless of time or space. The guided tour at the International Civil Rights Center & Museum in downtown Greensboro gave us time to pause and engage with a larger story of courage, advocacy, and change. It was powerful to move from academic conversations into a space that invited reflection on history, leadership, and the responsibility that comes with education.
The picnic at Country Park with Sarah’s Kabob gave everyone a chance to relax, laugh, and talk more informally. It was a reminder that finding a balance between work and play is important. This was further supported during the peak performance session led by Turner and Sophia, reminding students that success in doctoral work depends on more than coursework & research skills alone. They provided students with several techniques to reduce stress and increase success.
Reflecting on all the activities we experienced during these three days, I believe everyone was reenergized and refocused on their purpose, encouraged by community, and reminded that the final stretch of the doctoral journey does not have to be walked alone. We are excited to watch students complete their dissertation work over the next year so we can welcome them back for the Dissertation Showcase next May.
If you are interested in joining the EdD in KIN program to earn your doctoral degree, checkout our EdD in KIN website for additional information